LED grow lights are typically associated with growing of leafy greens and other vegetables but their application is becoming more common in the growing of trees as well. For instance, LEDs can be used during the seedling phase of tree growing in order to achieve faster seedling development and overall faster production cycle. This can be done in either completely controlled environments or in greenhouses.
To answer the question, “Can trees grow with artificial light?”, a study has been conducted on the effects of four different continuous spectrum LED light qualities on the growth characteristics of two types of pine trees (Pinus sylvestris L. and Abies borisii-regis Mattf). Four light spectra were used as treatment:
- G2 (high in red and far-red)
- AP67 (high in blue and far-red)
- AP67-ARCH (high in green)
- NS2 (high in blue including a small percentage in the UV area)
These are spectra of the LED grow lights company Valoya, from Finland. Fluorescent light was used as control in this experiment.
The findings demonstrate various benefits of using LED grow lights for trees such as greater root development, increase in dry weight and an overall more compact build of the plants. These outcomes were spectrum and tree species dependent so for instance the G2 spectrum stimulated needle formation in one of the species (Pinus sylvestris L.), while AP67 resulted in greater root development in the other (Abies borisii-regis Mattf). Overall, LED lights delivered better results than fluorescent light in all categories.
The researchers conclude that the use of continuous spectra in indoor LED grow lights may be beneficial in large scale seedling production for reforestation. To read the entire research, please click here
Read more: http://www.hortidaily.com/article/30300/LED-grow-lights-also-useful-in-tree-production
